I think my computer is in safe mode. Do I need to keep it there? I have plenty of virus, auto updates, etc. programmed to run and keep it safe. If I need to change the setting of safe mode, please tell me how.

You see the words "safe mode" in all 4 corners of the screen?

Safe mode gives you limited use of Windows, because only basic drivers and services are installed / started, so you shouldn't keep it there.

How is safe mode being started? Automatically?

Normally safe mode is user selected. 1. When Windows crashes unexpectedly, a menu will show on the next restart, or 2. By pressing F8 just before the Windows logo to bring up the same menu.